Massive Volcanic Eruption at Indonesia’s Mount Lewotobi – Devastation and Impact

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A series of three powerful eruptions occurred at the Mount Levotobi volcano in Indonesia last Friday, spewing ash and lava thousands of meters into the air. The eruptions prompted officials to expand the danger zone around the volcano, sending a warning to residents and tourists in the area.

Located in the remote Flores region of eastern Nusa Tenggara province, Mount Levotobi has experienced hundreds of earthquakes in recent days, with visible increase in volcanic activity over the past week. Authorities have raised the alert level to its highest, extending the danger zone from seven to eight kilometers from the crater.

The eruptions have disrupted air travel between Australia and the popular tourist island of Bali in Indonesia, leading to cancellations of flights. International and domestic flights in the region have also been affected due to ash clouds and volcanic activity in the vicinity.

Authorities have advised caution to residents living near rivers originating from the volcano, as heavy rainfall may trigger lahars (mudflows) that can pose risks to communities downstream. The Indonesian geological agency has issued a statement urging vigilance regarding the potential impact of heavy rainfall on river systems fed by the volcano.

In November, the eruption of Mount Levotobi resulted in the tragic deaths of nine individuals, with dozens sustaining injuries. Standing at an elevation of 1,584 meters, Mount Levotobi is part of the Timur Tengah district in Flores, Indonesia.

Indonesia, with a population of 270 million, is an archipelago known for its frequent seismic and volcanic activities. The country is home to approximately 120 active volcanoes, with Mount Levotobi situated within the “Ring of Fire,” a horseshoe-shaped zone of earthquake and volcanic activity encircling the Pacific Basin.

Opinion by Ramesh Khatri, representative of Kansai Nepal News: “The recent volcanic eruptions at Mount Levotobi in Indonesia serve as a stark reminder of the unpredictable nature of geological phenomena. It highlights the importance of continuous monitoring and preparedness in regions prone to volcanic activity. Our thoughts are with the individuals and communities affected by this event, and we urge authorities to prioritize safety measures to mitigate risks in the future.”


Author: MAYA | HARUTO
Posted at: March 21, 2025 7:02 pm